Nuclear Physics Laboratory

The Nuclear Physics Laboratory at CBS was set up during the year 2012. Innovative and open-ended experiments are distinguishing features of the laboratory.

Detectors for a variety of radiation, ranging from gamma and x rays, to alpha and beta particles, neutrons, and also cosmic-ray muons, are included in the laboratory. Energy and slow/fast timing spectroscopy, including coincidence and half-life measurements (spanning the nanoseconds-seconds range) are being performed. Research-grade instrumentation is used for acquiring and processing signals from different detectors. Most experiments are interfaced to computers to enable data collection and subsequent analysis. Students are encouraged to explore every aspect of the experiments in order to obtain a thorough understanding of the underlying Physics.

A large number of measurements are being carried out, with some examples being: (a) Interaction phenomena of gamma rays with matter using scintillation detectors (b) Transition probabilities and selection rules in nuclear decay using semiconductor detectors (c) Internal conversion and x-ray fluorescence measurements (d) Short half-life measurements using fast scintillation detectors/electronics and long half-lives using gas detectors (e) Spectrum analysis and fitting techniques using state-of-the-art software.

During August-November 2012, the first Advanced Physics Laboratory Course for fourth year students was undertaken. This course has now become a crucial part of the M.Sc. Physics curriculum. An elective course for final year students was scheduled in January-April 2013. Several students from within and outside CBS have successfully completed long-term projects in the laboratory.

About Us

CBS was set up by the Department of Atomic Energy and the University of Mumbai in 2007. CBS offers a 5 year integrated MSc program in Basic Sciences, with undergraduate teaching embedded in a postgraduate and research environment, for students who have completed 10+2 schooling or its equivalent.